Arachnid · Burrowing tarantula
Mexican black velvet tarantula care guide
Tliltocatl schroederi
The mexican black velvet tarantula is a intermediate-level burrowing tarantula from S Mexico. Adults reach Leg span 14–16 cm and live Females 15–25 years, males 3–5 years in captivity. Heavy digger that may stay hidden; deep, slightly damp substrate is essential.
- Enclosure 30 × 30 × 30 cm
- Temp 22–27°C
- Humidity 60–70%
How much does a mexican black velvet tarantula cost in Canada?
Mexican black velvet tarantula quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- Leg span 14–16 cm
- Lifespan
- Females 15–25 years, males 3–5 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- S Mexico
- Minimum enclosure
- 30 × 30 × 30 cm (12 × 12 × 12 in, ≈ 7 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- 22–27°C
- Humidity
- 60–70%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms
- Bioactive style
- Burrowing tarantula
Mexican black velvet tarantula enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 30 × 30 × 30 cm (12 × 12 × 12 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a burrowing tarantula bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Tarantula Mix15 cm
Deep, slightly packed soil lets burrows hold their shape. Moisten the lower layers; the top can be drier.
Temperature: 22–27°C. Humidity: 60–70%. UVB: Not needed.
What does a mexican black velvet tarantula eat?
Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms. Adults: 1–2 appropriately sized insects every 7–14 days; slings: small prey 2–3 times a week.
Handling, temperament & health
Skittish and quick to flick urticating hairs; minimal handling recommended.
Health watch: Watch for dehydration and molt problems; keep the lower substrate slightly moist and leave the burrow undisturbed.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Visual check only.
Weekly
- Offer food at the burrow entrance; remove leftovers.
- Refill water; moisten one corner so the deep soil stays damp.
Monthly
- Check moisture deep down by pouring a little water at the edge.
Yearly
- Rehouse as the spider grows.
Recommended for a mexican black velvet tarantula bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (30 × 30 × 30 cm).
Mexican black velvet tarantula FAQ
Is the mexican black velvet tarantula good for beginners?
The mexican black velvet tarantula is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Skittish and quick to flick urticating hairs; minimal handling recommended.
What size enclosure does a mexican black velvet tarantula need?
At least 30 × 30 × 30 cm (about 12 × 12 × 12 inches, roughly 7 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a mexican black velvet tarantula cost in Canada?
Typically $50–150 CAD to buy, about $100–170 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $40–90 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a mexican black velvet tarantula need?
Temperature: 22–27°C. Humidity: 60–70%.
What does a mexican black velvet tarantula eat?
Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms. Adults: 1–2 appropriately sized insects every 7–14 days; slings: small prey 2–3 times a week.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.